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Norway’s approach to internet governance is characterised by a high degree of regulation in favour of privacy and data protection. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), as adopted by Norway through the European Economic Area (EEA) agreement, is a key component of its regulatory framework.

The government’s overall vision is that the internet needs to continue to be an open and free arena where everyone can freely give and receive information and where human rights are protected.

Norway actively participates in international dialogues on internet governance. Norwegian stakeholders are active participants in various internet governance forums and initiatives at the regional and global levels. Norwegian stakeholders also participate in the European Dialogue on Internet Governance (EuroDIG) events, which bring together stakeholders from the region to discuss digital policy-related issues and challenges. At the global level, Norwegian stakeholders participate in the Internet Governance Forum (IGF).

The Norwegian government also announced its bid to host the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in 2025.

These multifaceted strategies reflect Norway’s holistic approach to digitalization. Whether through enhancing educational outcomes, transforming public service delivery, or improving the effectiveness of international aid, Norway’s digital policies are tailored to maximise both national and global benefits. Norway stands at the forefront of digital innovation, integrating sophisticated digital strategies across various sectors, including education, public administration, and international development.

Educational Foundations of Digital Literacy

The commitment to digital literacy is deeply embedded in the national education framework, which, since its approval in 2012, has recognised digital competence as a fundamental skill alongside reading, writing, and numeracy. This educational framework ensures that from a young age, Norwegians are equipped with the essential digital skills necessary for navigating the modern world. Norway is one of the rear countries to have dedicated strategy for digital transformation in the higher education sector.

Digital Throughout Life: A National Strategy

In response to the digital divide, Norway has implemented the ‘Digital Throughout Life‘ strategy, which is aimed at increasing digital participation and competence across all demographics. The initiative focuses on preventing digital exclusion by enhancing digital access and competencies, ensuring that digital benefits permeate through various life stages.

The Digital Agenda for Norway

The ‘Digital Agenda for Norway‘ outlines a robust strategy to utilise information and communication technology (ICT) to simplify everyday life and enhance productivity. The agenda emphasises user-centric public services, innovation, digital competence, effective public sector digitization, and stringent data protection and information security. Notably, the strategy recognises ICT as a pivotal growth sector, contributing significantly to Norway’s economic landscape.

The Role of the Norwegian Digitalisation Agency

Established on 1 January 2020, the Norwegian Digitalisation Agency embodies the government’s vision for public sector digitalization. The agency, evolving from the former Agency for Public Management and eGovernment (Difi) and parts of Altinn, plays a crucial role in defining digitalization policies, coordinating cross-organisational digital measures, and developing national digital services. This strategic body ensures that digital initiatives are accessible to all sectors of society and that public services utilise plain language and universal design principles.

Digitalisation for Development: Extending Norway’s Digital Expertise Globally

Norway’s stance on digital innovation extends beyond its borders through the ‘Digitalisation for Development‘ strategy. This international policy is designed to leverage digital technology to boost the effectiveness and reach of Norwegian development aid. The strategy not only aims to foster economic growth and welfare improvement in developing countries but also seeks to optimise the operational aspects of Norway’s development initiatives. By sharing digital knowledge and expertise, Norway helps partner countries build their digital capacities, which in turn supports sustainable development and poverty reduction.

At the heart of Norway’s approach to cybersecurity is its national strategy, which emphasises the creation of a secure, stable, and robust digital landscape. This strategy is rooted in several key principles, including the importance of international cooperation, the need for an integrated security approach, and the promotion of international standards.

An integrated approach to cybersecurity is also a cornerstone of Norway’s strategy. This approach encompasses personal, technological, and organisational security measures, aiming to foster a robust security culture across all sectors of society. Capacity development is another critical focus, with the government working to enhance the capabilities of national institutions and foster international partnerships to improve overall cybersecurity resilience.

Promoting and adopting international cybersecurity standards is a priority for Norway. Key partners in this effort include the European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA) and the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). Strengthening cooperation with the EU is also emphasised, particularly through the implementation of the Directive on Security of Network and Information Systems (NIS Directive) and participation in the contractual Public Private Partnership on Cybersecurity (cPPP Cybersecurity).

Norway actively participates in international cybersecurity collaborations, engaging with key forums such as the European Union (EU), United Nations (UN), Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and the Council of Europe. These collaborations are vital for establishing international norms and standards that enhance global cybersecurity.

Norway has also ratified the Council of Europe Convention on Cybercrime, commonly known as the Budapest Convention. This ratification underscores Norway’s commitment to international cooperation in combating cybercrime and establishing legal frameworks to address cyber threats.

In 2017, Norway introduced its International Cyber Strategy during the annual dialogue meeting on international cyber issues with the US, Nordic, and Baltic countries. This strategy outlines Norway’s principles and strategic priorities in international cyber policy, including cybersecurity, innovation and the economy, international cooperation to combat cybercrime, security policy, global internet governance, development, and human rights.

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) serves as the central authority for coordinating cybersecurity efforts across various sectors, providing guidance, support, and incident response services to both public and private entities. The Norwegian National Security Authority (NSM) is tasked with protecting national security interests, including critical infrastructure and essential services, overseeing the implementation of cybersecurity measures, and conducting regular assessments to identify and mitigate threats.

The Norwegian government collaborates closely with the private sector, recognising that much of the country’s digital infrastructure is privately owned. This partnership is crucial for sharing threat intelligence and best practices and ensuring the security of supply chains. Public awareness campaigns are also a key component of Norway’s strategy, aiming to improve digital literacy and promote safe online behaviour among citizens.

The AI landscape in Norway is rapidly evolving, with significant investments and strategic initiatives positioning the country as a key player in the field.

Norway has made substantial investments to enhance its data center infrastructure, crucial for supporting AI technologies. The government established NORA (Norwegian Artificial Intelligence Research Consortium) to bolster AI research and education. A notable investment includes 1 billion kroner to advance AI development, making Norway an attractive destination for AI enterprises due to its excellent internet speeds and abundant natural resources.

Events like the AI+ Conference and Nordic AI Summit play a crucial role in fostering AI innovation and collaboration. The AI+ Conference focuses on applied AI, discussing important questions about the application and control of AI technologies, including the implications of the EU’s AI Act. The Nordic AI Summit, held in Oslo, provides a platform for AI engineers, startups, and corporates to explore AI’s transformative potential through hands-on experience and expert insights.

Norway’s proactive stance includes collaborations between private industry, academia, and government agencies. These partnerships aim to drive AI innovation while ensuring ethical standards and societal benefits. The Norwegian Digitalisation Agency and other key players are actively involved in shaping the AI landscape.

According to the AI Readiness Index 2023, Norway ranks 13th, the country is well-positioned to become a leading AI hub in Europe. This is due to its robust infrastructure, strategic investments, and commitment to sustainability. The combination of advanced data centre technologies, strong regulatory support, and active collaboration across sectors creates a solid foundation for Norway’s AI ecosystem.

In 2020, Norway adopted its National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, which provides a comprehensive framework for AI development. The strategy emphasises ethical principles, advanced research, effective data management, public sector innovation, and a supportive regulatory environment. This framework aims to ensure that AI technologies are developed and used responsibly, fostering innovation while safeguarding societal values. The country aims to align its AI initiatives with the upcoming EU AI Act, ensuring that AI development and deployment are regulated to protect citizens’ rights and promote ethical standards.